India's Second Nuclear Submarine, INS Arighat
INS Arighat, India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine commissioned into service by Defence Minister, enhances India's ability to maintain a credible nuclear deterrent.
Nigam Sharma29 Aug, 2024
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India’s Second Nuclear Submarine, INS Arighat: Today, 29th August 2024, marks an important moment for India's naval capabilities with the commissioning of the INS Arighat, the country’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN).
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will preside over the ceremony, which will also be attended by Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, Indian Strategic Command Head Vice Admiral Suraj Berry, and top DRDO officials. This event highlights India's growing strategic prowess and its commitment to enhancing maritime security.What is an SSBN?
INS Arighat is an upgraded version of INS Arihant and represents the second submarine of the Arihant class, following its predecessor, INS Arihant, which entered service in 2009. The submarine has been under construction since 2017 at the Ship Building Centre (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. INS Arighat is equipped to support and augment the capabilities of INS Arihant, contributing significantly to India’s underwater strategic deterrent.Specifications and Features of INS Arighat
The INS Arighat boasts impressive specifications, combining stealth, firepower, and advanced technology to serve as a critical component of India’s underwater strategic deterrent. Key features include:- Displacement and Dimensions : INS Arighat displaces 6,000 tonnes and is 112 meters long.
- Speed : It can achieve a maximum speed of 12–15 knots (22–28 km/h) on the surface and up to 24 knots (44 km/h) when submerged.
- Armament : The submarine is armed with up to four K-4 SLBMs (Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles) with a range exceeding 3,500 kilometers or twelve K-15 SLBMs with a range of around 750 kilometers. The K-15 missiles can be fitted with strategic nuclear warheads. Additionally, INS Arighat is equipped with torpedoes.
- Power : Powered by 83 MW pressurised water reactors, the submarine can remain submerged for extended periods, enhancing its stealth and operational flexibility.
- Stealth Capabilities : The INS Arighat features advanced sonar systems, quiet propulsion, and state-of-the-art stealth technology, making it less detectable and more effective in carrying out its missions.
Strategic Significance of INS Arighat
INS Arighat enhances India’s strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region. The addition of this SSBN to the Indian Navy's fleet provides a substantial boost to the country’s second-strike capability, forming a critical component of its nuclear triad. The submarine's ability to carry a significant number of nuclear-capable missiles allows India to maintain a credible deterrent against potential adversaries.Future Plans and Development of INS Arighat
India's submarine program is ambitious, with plans to develop five Arihant-class SSBNs alongside six nuclear attack submarines in three blocks. The third SSBN, INS Aridaman (S4), is scheduled for commissioning next year, followed by a fourth SSBN, codenamed S-4*. These developments will ensure India maintains a robust and versatile underwater deterrent.Impact of INS Arighat on Regional Security of India
With INS Arighat joining INS Arihant, India now has two operational SSBNs, greatly enhancing its maritime strategic capabilities. The presence of these submarines in the Indo-Pacific region acts as a significant deterrent to other naval powers, particularly as China expands its military presence and maritime influence. INS Arighat not only bolsters India’s strategic deterrent but also contributes to regional stability and security by enhancing India’s ability to conduct a wide range of naval operations. In conclusion, the commissioning of INS Arighat represents a major milestone in India’s naval history, reinforcing its strategic capabilities and ensuring a stronger presence in the Indo-Pacific region. With advanced technology and formidable armament, INS Arighat is set to play a crucial role in safeguarding India's maritime interests and maintaining peace and security in the region.
India’s Second Nuclear Submarine, INS Arighat FAQs
Q1. What is INS Arighat?
Ans. INS Arighat is India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), designed to enhance the country's strategic deterrence capabilities. It is part of the Arihant-class series of submarines developed indigenously by India.
Q2. When was INS Arighat commissioned?
Ans. INS Arighat was commissioned into the Indian Navy on August 29, 2024, by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during a ceremony in Visakhapatnam.
Q3. How is INS Arighat different from its predecessor, INS Arihant?
Ans. INS Arighat is an upgraded version of INS Arihant, featuring advanced technology, improved stealth capabilities, and enhanced weaponry. While both submarines belong to the Arihant-class, INS Arighat has a larger missile-carrying capacity and is more efficient and stealthy.
Q4. What are the specifications of INS Arighat?
Ans. INS Arighat has a displacement of approximately 6,000 tonnes, is 112 meters long, and is powered by an 83 MW pressurized water reactor. It can reach a speed of 12–15 knots (22–28 km/h) on the surface and up to 24 knots (44 km/h) when submerged.
Q5. What type of missiles does INS Arighat carry?
Ans. INS Arighat is equipped with K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) with a range of over 3,500 kilometers and K-15 SLBMs with a range of around 750 kilometers. The submarine can carry up to four K-4 missiles or twelve K-15 missiles, all capable of being fitted with nuclear warheads.
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